This panel discussion will focus on educational opportunities and challenges in the Cradle Coast region.

According to Guenther and Langworthy (2010) “the proportion of the population [in the Cradle Coast region] that completes year 12 is about two-thirds the state average and just over half the national average. Other education statistics show that the region is struggling to engage with education generally, and perhaps more specifically with higher education” (p. 1). This presents a range of challenges and opportunities.

Questions

What opportunities already exist for people within the region to develop the resources, opportunities and capability to learn? How might these opportunities be maximised?

What are the challenges faced by governments, regional authorities, education and training providers, parents and young people in making the most of these resources and opportunities? How are these challenges being overcome?

What else could/should to be done to lift participation in education and training in the region to ensure that all those living in the region have the opportunity to “participate fully in the life of our society”?

The Education Conversation series encourages closer connections between the UTAS Faculty of Education and the local community. This community includes teachers and school administrators, educational leaders in the region, staff working in other education and training providers, research higher degree candidates, parents, students – particularly those studying Education with the view to becoming a teacher – and others with an interest in education in the region.